In recent days, there has been a lot of talk about Barcelona being interested in Joao Pedro. But it looks like the La Liga champions might have a better chance of signing one of Chelsea’s defenders instead. In fact, they have been offered the chance and are believed to be considering the possibility.
Of course, Chelsea’s defence has been one of their weak points this season. Enzo Maresca’s request for a new centre-back was overlooked in the summer despite Levi Colwill’s ACL injury. That has proven to be a blunder that played a part in derailing their season, and in a way, the BlueCo project.
This summer, Chelsea will need to add to their centre-back ranks. But the club will be working under financial constraints. So, there is a good chance that in order to sign, they will need to let go of a few players first. On the other hand, it looks like one defender could already be looking to engineer a move away.
Barcelona offered chance to sign Chelsea starter
According to Sky Sport, Wesley Fofana was recently offered to FC Barcelona by his representatives. His profile has not gone unnoticed by the Spanish champions’ management and has been added to an extended internal list.
It remains to be seen if Chelsea are open to Fofana’s exit. He is one of the starters when fit and available. The report goes on to state that the Blues’ position isn’t entirely closed. They aren’t opposed to a departure, but they’re waiting for an offer of at least €30 million, excluding bonuses, before considering a transfer.
On the other hand, Barcelona’s management is exploring a different approach. They want a loan with an option to buy. Obviously, that would not help Chelsea’s financial situation, and as a result, it would make little sense to let Fofana go under those conditions.
Would letting Fofana go be the right move?
It remains to be seen what decision the club end up taking. To me, if the best Barcelona can offer is a loan move with an option to buy then Chelsea would be better off sticking with Fofana.
In the right setup, he can still be one of Chelsea’s better defenders. And at least come close to meeting expectations. They have plenty of centre-backs right now who have very little hope of doing that.
Names like Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi and Tosin Adarabioyo should be far ahead on the list of centre-backs the club should try to part ways with this summer.
